When the warm days of summer roll around, there’s nothing quite like the vibrant sweetness of fresh strawberries to brighten your day. One afternoon, I found myself craving something more than just a bowl of berries; I wanted a dessert that would transport me to a sun-soaked picnic. That’s when I decided to whip up a delightful Strawberry Cream Cheese Pie. Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust cradling a luscious filling of whipped cream and velvety cream cheese, expertly blended with succulent strawberry compote. This pie isn’t just a treat; it’s the epitome of summer indulgence!
What makes this pie so special is its effortless elegance—it may look like a showstopper, but it comes together in a snap. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or seeking a personal slice of sweetness after a long day, this pie is here to satisfy your cravings without the fuss. Just one bite, and you’ll wish you had made two! So gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this berry bliss.
Why is this Strawberries and Cream Pie irresistible?
Decadent and Creamy: This pie features a dreamy balance of cream cheese and whipped cream, creating a texture that melts in your mouth.
Fresh Strawberries: The vibrant strawberry compote bursts with summer flavor, making each slice feel like a sunny picnic.
Easy to Make: With a simple graham cracker crust and no-bake filling, you can enjoy this dessert without the stress.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether for a family gathering or a casual lunch with friends, this pie is always a hit—it invites compliments!
Make-Ahead Delight: Chill it overnight, savor it the next day—it’s a great time-saver for busy cooks.
Indulge your sweet tooth with this delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!
Strawberries and Cream Pie Ingredients
For the Strawberry Filling
• 16 oz fresh strawberries – using ripe, in-season berries will enhance the pie’s sweetness and flavor.
• ½ cup sugar – balances the tartness of the strawberries beautifully.
• 1 tsp lemon juice – adds brightness and enhances the strawberry flavor.
• ¾ tsp unflavoured gelatin – helps set the filling for a perfect slice.
• 2 tbsp cornstarch – acts as a thickener for the delicious compote.
For the Crust
• 1 ½ cups graham crumbs – provides a buttery, sweet base that complements the filling.
• ⅓ cup sugar – sweetens the crust and helps it hold together.
• 6 tbsp butter, melted – adds richness and helps bind the crust ingredients.
For the Cream Cheese Filling
• 12 oz cream cheese, softened – ensures a creamy, smooth texture in the filling.
• ¾ cup icing sugar – sweetens the cream cheese without adding graininess.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – infuses a warm, comforting flavor into the filling.
• 1 ¼ cups whipping cream – gives lightness and a luxurious mouthfeel to the dessert.
For Garnishing
• ¾ cup reserved Cream Cheese Filling – provides a delightful topping to finish your pie.
• 1 tbsp icing sugar – sweetens the whipped cream topping.
• Fresh strawberries, for garnish – a charming finishing touch that enhances the pie’s visual appeal.
This Strawberries and Cream Pie doesn’t just look stunning on the table—it brings a burst of flavor that will have everyone coming back for more!
How to Make Strawberries and Cream Pie
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Prepare the Strawberries: Wash and dice the fresh strawberries. In a medium saucepan, combine them with sugar and lemon juice. Cook over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until the strawberries release their juices and become scrumptious.
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Bloom the Gelatin: In a small cup, mix the gelatin with 1 1/2 tsp water and set it aside to bloom. In another bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 tbsp water to create a slurry for thickening the filling.
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Thicken the Filling: Once the strawberries boil and are juicy, whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Allow it to boil until thickened, then remove from the heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until it melts completely.
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Chill the Filling: Transfer your scrumptious strawberry filling to a mixing bowl and cover it with cling film placed directly on the surface. Chill it overnight or at least 4 to 6 hours until it’s cold and set.
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Make the Graham Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Mix in the melted butter to create a well-combined crust mixture.
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Bake the Crust: Spray a pie dish with non-stick spray. Press the graham cracker mixture evenly into the dish, then bake for 10 minutes. Allow it to cool completely before adding the filling.
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Whip the Cream: Using a mixer with the whip attachment, whip 1 ¼ cups of whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Transfer it to a bowl and refrigerate while you prepare the cream cheese filling.
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Beat the Cream Cheese: In the same mixer, add softened cream cheese and beat on medium until creamy and fluffy, scraping down the sides as needed for an even blend.
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Incorporate Sugar and Vanilla: Add icing sugar and vanilla extract, mixing on low until just incorporated. Raise the speed to medium and beat until smooth for a delightful flavor.
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Fold in Whipped Cream: Gently fold one-third of the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, blending well. Repeat twice more with the remaining whipped cream, taking care not to deflate it.
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Reserve Some Filling: Set aside about ¾ cup of the combined cream cheese filling in a small bowl for the topping. Stir the chilled strawberry filling to loosen before using in the pie.
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Layer the Fillings: Drop two-thirds of the cream cheese filling into the graham crust in large dollops. Follow by adding two-thirds of the strawberry filling into pockets of the cream cheese. Swirl the two fillings together with a knife, then repeat with the remaining fillings, smoothing the top.
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Chill Again: Place the assembled pie in the fridge and chill for at least 4 to 6 hours to let it set beautifully.
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Decorate the Pie: Whip the remaining 1 ¼ cups of whipping cream to soft peaks. Add icing sugar and the reserved cream cheese filling, then whip to stiff peaks for a delightful topping.
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Pipe Whipped Cream: Transfer the whipped cream to a pastry bag with a large tip and pipe it decoratively over the pie. Slice the remaining fresh strawberries in half and arrange them around the pie for an elegant touch.
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Add a Glaze (Optional): If you desire a glossy finish, warm the reserved glaze in the microwave until slightly melted. Brush it over the halved strawberries for a lovely shine. Chill until you’re ready to serve.
Optional: Garnish with mint leaves for an extra fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Strawberries and Cream Pie
Fresh Ingredients: Use only ripe, in-season strawberries for a naturally sweet and vibrant flavor in your pie.
Chill Time: Don’t skimp on chilling—the longer the filling sits, the better the flavors meld together and the firmer the pie will be.
Whipped Cream Care: When folding in the whipped cream, do so gently to maintain that light, airy texture crucial for a delightful Strawberries and Cream Pie.
Layering Technique: When swirling the fillings, use a gentle hand to create beautiful ribbons without overmixing, which can affect the appearance and texture.
Graham Crust Tip: Ensure the graham cracker crust is completely cool before adding the filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.
Serving Suggestion: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and extra freshness, enhancing your pie’s visual appeal!
What to Serve with Strawberries and Cream Pie?
A sunny slice of something sweet deserves delightful companions to make your meal truly memorable.
- Fresh Mint Salad: A light and refreshing salad with mint, lemon, and berries complements the sweetness of the pie and adds a burst of freshness.
- Light Lemonade: Chilled lemonade with a hint of mint balances the rich creaminess of the pie, creating a perfect summer sip alongside each slice.
- Whipped Cream Topping: Extra whipped cream on the side enhances the pie experience, providing an indulgent texture contrast. It’s always a welcome addition!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the fruity flavors, creating a delightful melty moment in every bite.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: For a touch of decadence, serve chocolate-covered strawberries that echo the pie’s main ingredient while introducing complementary flavors.
- Sparkling Water: A bubbly, flavored sparkling water offers a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of the creamy dessert, keeping the dining experience light and enjoyable.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses, such as Brie or Mascarpone, provides a savory contrast to the sweet pie, making for a well-rounded plate ideal for gatherings.
- Almond Biscotti: Crunchy, nutty biscotti add texture and a satisfying crunch, turning each bite of pie into a delightful experience.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: For an extra bit of tropical flair, coconut whipped cream provides a fun and flavorful twist that complements the strawberry perfectly!
How to Store and Freeze Strawberries and Cream Pie
Fridge: Store the pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain its creamy and fresh flavor.
Freezer: If you need to freeze the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen Strawberries and Cream Pie, transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight before serving.
Serving After Freezing: For the best texture, serve chilled, and consider adding freshly whipped cream and garnish right before serving for that delightful touch!
Strawberries and Cream Pie Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists on your pie to brighten your dessert experience!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese and whipping cream with coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese for a tropical twist.
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Berry Medley: Combine strawberries with blueberries or raspberries for a vibrant berry explosion that tantalizes your taste buds.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the top before serving to elevate the dessert to a luscious chocolate-covered delight.
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Nutty Crust: Swap the graham cracker crust for a crushed nut crust using almonds or pecans for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
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Savory Twist: Incorporate a pinch of sea salt in the cream cheese mixture for a contrasting touch that enhances the overall sweetness.
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Spiced Delight: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese filling for a warm, cozy flavor, perfect for cooler months.
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Zesty Option: Introduce a splash of orange or lime juice in the strawberry filling to provide a refreshing zest that brightens the whole pie.
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Chilled Bites: For a fun twist, freeze small portions of the filling in muffin tins for a bite-sized, frosty treat on hot summer days.
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberries and Cream Pie preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their meal planning! You can prepare the strawberry filling up to 24 hours ahead; simply store it in the fridge covered with cling film to prevent browning. Additionally, the graham cracker crust can be baked and left at room temperature for up to 3 days before filling. When you’re ready to serve, whip the cream cheese filling and fold in the cream just before layering it with the strawberry filling to maintain the luscious texture. Assemble the pie shortly before serving, and you’ll have a refreshing dessert ready with minimal last-minute effort!
Strawberries and Cream Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best strawberries for my pie?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are vibrant red, firm, and without any dark spots, which indicate overripeness. When pressed gently, they should yield slightly but not be mushy. If possible, grab some in-season berries—this enhances both sweetness and overall flavor!
How should I store my strawberries and cream pie?
The best way to keep your pie fresh is by storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its creamy texture and delicious flavor. Make sure to cover it well to avoid absorbing any fridge odors.
Can I freeze the strawberries and cream pie?
Yes, you can! To freeze your pie, first wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This way, it can be stored for up to 2 months. Just remember, for the best texture, thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving!
What if my filling is too runny?
If you find your strawberry filling isn’t as thick as you’d like, don’t worry; you can rectify this. Here’s what to do: boil the mixture again and mix a little more cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Whisk it into the boiling filling until it thickens—be sure to stir constantly!
Are there any dietary restrictions to consider?
Very! This pie contains gluten (from the graham cracker crust) and dairy (cream cheese and whipping cream), which could be problematic for those with allergies or intolerances. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham crackers and make sure to check your cream cheese brand for gluten content.
How long does the pie need to chill before serving?
It’s best to chill your completed pie for at least 4 to 6 hours, but if you can, letting it rest overnight is ideal. This extended chill time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you that perfect, sweet, and creamy texture when sliced.
Delicious Strawberries and Cream Pie to Sweeten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash and dice the fresh strawberries. In a medium saucepan, combine them with sugar and lemon juice. Cook over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until the strawberries release their juices and become scrumptious.
- In a small cup, mix the gelatin with 1 1/2 tsp water and set it aside to bloom. In another bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 tbsp water to create a slurry for thickening the filling.
- Once the strawberries boil and are juicy, whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Allow it to boil until thickened, then remove from the heat and stir in the bloomed gelatin until it melts completely.
- Transfer your scrumptious strawberry filling to a mixing bowl and cover it with cling film placed directly on the surface. Chill it overnight or at least 4 to 6 hours until it’s cold and set.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Mix in the melted butter to create a well-combined crust mixture.
- Spray a pie dish with non-stick spray. Press the graham cracker mixture evenly into the dish, then bake for 10 minutes. Allow it to cool completely before adding the filling.
- Using a mixer with the whip attachment, whip 1 ¼ cups of whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Transfer it to a bowl and refrigerate while you prepare the cream cheese filling.
- In the same mixer, add softened cream cheese and beat on medium until creamy and fluffy, scraping down the sides as needed for an even blend.
- Add icing sugar and vanilla extract, mixing on low until just incorporated. Raise the speed to medium and beat until smooth for a delightful flavor.
- Gently fold one-third of the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, blending well. Repeat twice more with the remaining whipped cream, taking care not to deflate it.
- Set aside about ¾ cup of the combined cream cheese filling in a small bowl for the topping. Stir the chilled strawberry filling to loosen before using in the pie.
- Drop two-thirds of the cream cheese filling into the graham crust in large dollops. Follow by adding two-thirds of the strawberry filling into pockets of the cream cheese. Swirl the two fillings together with a knife, then repeat with the remaining fillings, smoothing the top.
- Place the assembled pie in the fridge and chill for at least 4 to 6 hours to let it set beautifully.
- Whip the remaining 1 ¼ cups of whipping cream to soft peaks. Add icing sugar and the reserved cream cheese filling, then whip to stiff peaks for a delightful topping.
- Transfer the whipped cream to a pastry bag with a large tip and pipe it decoratively over the pie. Slice the remaining fresh strawberries in half and arrange them around the pie for an elegant touch.
- If you desire a glossy finish, warm the reserved glaze in the microwave until slightly melted. Brush it over the halved strawberries for a lovely shine. Chill until you're ready to serve.